Chlorogenic acid sources, health benefits and uses

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a powerful compound found mostly in coffee. It was first discovered in 1932 and is classified as an esterified compound. While CGA is commonly found in both green and roasted coffee, the process of roasting results in a slow decomposition of CGA to form the caffeic and quinic acid. Coffee has the highest concentrations of CGA among any other species in the plant kingdom, according to a featured entry on the Coffee Chemistry website.

The entry also noted that CGA concentration varied across species of coffee, with Robusta containing twice as much of the compound compared with the Arabica plant. CGA production is activated by various factors such as plant stress, pest infestation, and changes in environmental conditions. Likewise, the CGA production is found to be parallel with caffeine production. This means that both compounds may simultaneously increase during the production process.

Medicinal uses for chlorogenic acid

Chlorogenic acid is touted for its beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. According to an article posted on the Supplement Police website, taking 140 mg of CGA daily for 12 weeks may help lower blood pressure levels in individuals with mild to moderate hypertension.

The compound is especially ideal for people who want to opt out of high blood pressure medications. Green coffee extracts are notably rich in CGA. However, the article stated that the compound may not work for people with extremely high blood pressure levels.

The CGA in coffee beans are also known to contain strong anti-thrombotic properties that inhibit platelets from clustering together. This, in turn, prevents the arteries from hardening and therefore promotes the overall blood circulation.

In addition, the potent compounds are found to possess antioxidant properties that enhance the body’s overall well-being. An entry featured on the Style Craze website revealed that the CGA in green coffee beans can counter the adverse effects of free radicals and are about 10 times more effective than regular green tea in eliminating the disease-causing compounds.

The beneficial compounds are also known to fortify the immune system and flush out all types of toxic chemicals and harmful elements from the body. Likewise, the strong antioxidant properties of CGA are found to effectively reduce the appearance of wrinkles and promote skin health.

Moreover, CGA is highly valued for its positive effects on brain health. While little research has been done, the compound is previously known to help Alzheimer’s disease patients to maintain their mental state and remember the activities they try to carry out.

The powerful antioxidant is also shown to improve both body weight and diabetes status. A previous study reveals that taking green coffee extracts five times daily for 12 days may help facilitate weight loss. Likewise, previous research has demonstrated that CGA is remarkably effective in regulating the body’s blood sugar levels and preventing harmful fluctuations in patients with type-2 diabetes.

Body systems supported by chlorogenic acid

Chlorogenic acid is best known for its beneficial effects on the body’s cardiovascular profile. Likewise, the compound helps improve the body’s immunity and blood circulation. In addition, the powerful compound promotes digestive health and improves brain function.